Treatments

What is Sclerotherapy

Dr Zara Kassam

What is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical procedure that helps to treats varicose and spider veins by injecting chemicals, known as sclerosing agents directly into the affected vein. The damaged vein is reabsorbed and eventually fades, resulting in a diminished vein-free appearance. It is sometimes called microsclerotherapy, but this is usually reserved for the spider or thread veins only.

How does it work?

The first stage of the procedure involves cleaning the skin around the targeted veins; then with a fine needle, injecting the chemical solution directly into it.

The FDA has approved two solutions to date, these are:

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate and

Polidocanol (Asclera).

The chemical solution causes the walls of the injected vein to shut, thereby redirecting the blood to unaffected veins. Over time, our body will reabsorb the damaged vein, making it less visible

How long Does it take?

Sclerotherapy can take anywhere from 15-60 minutes depending on the size of the veins being treated.

Is Sclerotherapy painful?

Sclerotherapy in not a painful, however as it requires an injection, some discomfort may be felt at the site of the injection.

What is the recovery time?

There is no downtown required; people who have had the procedure are strongly advised to walk and remain active after the treatment and are also required to wear compression socks for up to 3 weeks to reduce the risk of blood clots.

What are the side effects?

Sclerotherapy is a relatively safe procedure with few complications. However, some mild side effects may occur at the site of the injection these include:

Bruising

Raised red areas

Small skin sores

Darkened skin in the form of lines or spots

Multiple tiny red blood vessels

These side effects usually go away within 2 weeks.

Other more serious complications that may arise as a result of Sclerotherapy include:

Inflammation – Usually mild but may cause swelling

Blood clots –A lump of clotted blood may form in a treated vein that may require drainage.

Skin ulceration – If the solution goes into the surrounding tissues it can cause a small ulcer of the skin. This may take several weeks and could leave a scar.

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) – If the solution passes into the deep veins there is a risk of thrombosis.

Following the treatment avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, or other anti-inflammatory drugs for at least 48 hours.

It is also best to avoid:

Hot baths

Whirlpools or saunas

Sun exposure

Is it suitable for everyone?

Cosmetic sclerotherapy is not advised during pregnancy or breast feeding. On the NHS you are not eligible for the treatment if you are pregnant.

It should also be avoided if you:

are allergic to any of the ingredients

are taking the contraceptive pill

have a local skin infection

have a serious heart condition including heart disease or weak valves which require surgery

have an uncontrolled disease e.g. diabetes

are unable to walk.

How much does it cost?

The average cost for sclerotherapy varies by the size and number of veins being treated. Treatments can range anywhere from £300 to more than £2000 depending on how many injections are needed and how many sessions are required.

Who can do this procedure?

It should only be performed by qualified medical professionals.

Is it effective?

Sclerotherapy is an effective technique to eliminate or collapse veins. Studies have indicated that as many as 50%-75% of injected veins may be eliminated with each session. There are other options available including laser and IPL treatments as well.